According to the Swedish manufacturer, the aircraft took off from the company’s airfield in Linköping at 09:40 local time on 28 August 2026, beginning its 40-minute maiden flight.
During its inaugural flight, the aeroplane was piloted by Saab’s Chief Test Pilot, Jakob Högberg, and Brazilian Air Force test pilot Lieutenant Colonel Aviator Abdon de Rezende Vasconcelos. The flight successfully demonstrated the functionality of the aircraft’s core systems and its initial flight performance.
“This first flight represents an important step forward for both Saab and the Brazilian Air Force. Seeing Gripen F take to the skies is particularly significant for all the Swedish and Brazilian teams whose years of engineering work have helped turn this aircraft into a reality. It is designed to accelerate pilot training while enhancing operational performance in advanced combat missions,” said Lars Tossman, Head of Saab’s Business Area Aeronautics.
The first flight of the Gripen F marks the start of its flight test campaign, beginning with the initial production acceptance flights. Once these are complete, the programme will move on to a phase of progressive envelope expansion. During this stage, the full performance limits of the aircraft, including its speed, altitude, G-load and angle of attack, will be successively verified. At the same time, the tactical capabilities and rear cockpit functions specific to the two-seat configuration will be evaluated.
The Gripen F is a two-seat, multirole version of the Gripen E, the latest variant in Saab’s family of JAS 39 light jet fighters. The aeroplane is the result of a strategic partnership between Brazil and Sweden, as well as the extensive technology transfer carried out under the Brazilian Gripen Programme.
Brazil, as the launch customer, played an active role in co-developing the two-seat variant, enabling direct industrial participation and long-term cooperation. More than 350 Brazilian engineers, technicians and pilots have participated in training activities related to the development, production, flight testing and maintenance of the Gripen F.
Testing of the new aeroplane will continue at Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Sweden. Following the completion of the planned activities and aircraft acceptance procedures, the Gripen F will be prepared for delivery to the Brazilian Air Force.
Cover photo: Saab JAS 39 Gripen F – First Flight ©Saab
The Saab company press materials were used.
